Bafana star set for lengthy spell on the sidelines after surgery on his leg

The South African Football Association have confirmed that midfielder Sphephelo Sithole has undergone surgery to his leg after he was injured in Bafana Bafana’s last game.

Sithole was carried off the pitch on a stretcher during South Africa’s dramatic 3-2 win in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against against South Sudan in Juba on Tuesday.

Sithole, who recently moved to Poruguese top flight club Gil Vicente on loan from C.D. Tondela, was operated on after the team returned to the country.

“We are so happy to see him in such high spirits, just a day after the operation. He is in such a positive frame of mind that you can’t help but be inspired. May he continue his recovery and return to the pitch when he ready,” Safa president Danny Jordaan said on Friday.

Sithole, who will now begin his rehabilitation, said: “Thank you to everybody for their prayers, well wishes and support, it means a lot. Thank you to my teammates, the coaches, the doctors, SAFA, the fans and the country at large.”

Team doctor Thulani Ngwenya added that the midfielder would continue being monitored during his recovery.

“We are very happy with his progress and he is already walking with the aid of his physio. We expect him to be back in action in about 10 to 12 weeks,” Ngwenya said.

Sithole won’t be available for Bafana Bafana’s next two Afcon qualifiers against Congo in October.

IOL Sport